Simulated phishing or a phishing test is where deceptive emails, similar to malicious emails, are sent by an organization to their own staff to gauge their response to phishing and similar email attacks. The emails themselves are often a form of training, but such testing is normally done in conjunction with prior training; and often followed up with more training elements. This is especially the case for those who "fail" by opening email attachments, clicking on included weblinks, or entering credentials.
Typically, phishing simulations are conducted on a recurring basis to measure long-term improvement in user behavior and to maintain heightened awareness among staff. Regular simulations also serve to identify employees who may need extra support in understanding cybersecurity threats.